Rite Aid launches anti-obesity clinics

CAMP HILL, Pa., Sept. 19 (UPI) -- Pharmacy chain Rite Aid said Tuesday its in-store health clinics will offer weight-control services at some California sites.

The company said it has entered into an agreement with Lindora Medical Clinics to offer "medically supervised treatment for weight control" at a number of Rite Aid's Southern California stores.

The health clinics with anti-obesity programs will be launched at three Rite Aid stores in Orange County, the first of which is slated to open Oct. 2 in Costa Mesa.

The novel clinics will be staffed by certified nurse practitioners and other healthcare professionals who will administer supervised weight management programs in addition to the routine medical services offered at the sites.

The anti-obesity services at the Lindora clinics will include supervised weight-management programs for people wishing to "start or restart" a weight-loss regimen and special weight control plans targeting adolescents and seniors, Rite Aid said.

"Obesity is a growing epidemic and a major factor in developing diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. With Lindora's expertise in medically supervised weight management, we are taking in-store health care services to a new level," said Mark de Bruin, Rite Aid's executive vice president of pharmacy.